A New Indonesia

A New Indonesia

From Rakyat Merdeka

From the beginning, the student movement had the sole objective of removing Soeharto from the presidency and electing a president according to the people's wishes. Their motto was to abolish collusion, corruption and nepotism and implement total reform. In the past two years people have enjoyed comprehensive freedom of expression.

I think the following can now be done to support the government:

1. Officials of governmental agencies and state-owned companies should work as best as they can in their capacity of civil servants.

2. Researchers should contribute to the people's welfare, e.g. agriculturists should work to boost the export of chilies, kumis kucing (herbs with diuretic properties), etc. Experts in economy, marketing and languages should look for export opportunities worldwide. Research institutes at universities and students should also be involved in the effort.

3. Intellectuals and students in politics should form laboratories at universities to study politics, apply all the political theories and compile the people's wishes. This effort should involve non-governmental organizations.

4. The House of Representatives and the People's Consultative Assembly should be open to students to listen to debates and channel their aspirations. Answers to questions should be given according to a set schedule. An attitude of self-righteousness should be avoided.

If we agree on the implementation of these points this nation will see no more riots and conflicts. Only then can we head together toward a New Indonesia.

IBNU SULAIMAN

Jakarta